Writing, Publishing

The Art of Creative Writing - Day
Have you always wanted to write? Do you have a novel, poem(s) or memoir somewhere inside you? This course will introduce you to techniques and exercises designed to open you up to your creative self. We will explore the wide-open worlds of fiction, poetry and personal essay/memoir, and find ways to better express our creative ideas through metaphor, mood and tone. Each session will consist of spontaneous writing exercises followed by (non-mandatory) sharing and constructive, encouraging comments. Participants will also be assigned take-home exercises, with the option of working on their own personal writing projects. This course is intended to inspire you to keep writing long after the final session is over. Beginners and more experienced writers are invited. Bring a notebook and a pen and the desire to write! Taught by Chris Belden. Chris Belden is the author of the novel, Squirt, co-author of the feature film Amnesia, and numerous plays. His CD, Songs About Anything was released in 2004. His second CD, Camouflage, was released last year. He has taught many writing workshops.
Please call (203) 431-9995 for Fall 2010 dates.

Archaeology

The Indians of Ridgefield
Ridgefield has been populated for at least 9,000 years. At the time of the first occupation, the Titicus River was almost to the top of the ledges on Ledges road and its flood plain flowed over Rt. 116. Lake Mamanasco came to the top of the bluffs which now overlook it. The land was mostly a forest taiga wth pockets of deciduous trees along the rivers and lakes. The first people to live on this land were wanderers. As the centuries passed they became more sedentary, territorial hunter/gatherers, with their own cultural and political system. They manufactured their tools from the local quartz and other lithic materials, wood and bone. It was a way of life that flourished until the settlers arrived. When the settlers arrived they bought the land from the Indians. Historical evidence of their encounter is found in the Deeds between the Proprietors and the Indians and in archaeological finds. Taught by Lynn-Marie Wieland. Lynn-Marie Wieland is is a lithic archaeologist specializing in Southern New England prehistory with an emphasis on the Indians of Ridgefield, whose territory covered from Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Pound Ridge, New York to the Norwalk River. She has just finished excavating a site in Ridgefield that covered at least 9,000 years of occupation Her specialty is the study of the manufacturing and use of stone tools.
Please call (203) 431-9995 for Fall 2010 dates.

American History

The Lure of Local History
Local history buffs are promised a lively and educational evening. This one-session class will not only tell the story of the famous ride General Israel Putnam - “Connecticut’s own” - made from Greenwich to Stamford in 1779, it will also cover General Putnam’s colorful background and the equally interesting story of this region during the American Revolution. Other famous - (in some cases, infamous) - characters from the history of southwestern Connecticut, like Benedict Arnold and Boss Tweed, will also be covered during class. We will even have time to discuss “The Other Founding Father,” the Count de Rochambeau, and the part he played in the history of our state. The multi-media presentation, combining lecture and video, will be hosted by John Savage. •John Savage studied at New College, Oxford, and taught at the University of Connecticut and Fairfield University.
Please call (203) 431-9995 for Fall 2010 dates.

Superheroes: A History

Comic Book Superheroes: A History
In recent weeks newspapers have been reporting the $1,000,000 sales of early superhero books. That adds even more interest to the field, This class provides a concise history of the advent of the superheroes in the late 1938s and what’s been happening since. Decade to decade. Superman, Batman, Captain America, Spider-Man, Sheena, Wonder Woman and a host of others. Plus words on the value of old comics and the increasingly growing popularity of big budget superhero movies. Profusely illustrated with color slides of dozens of superfolks from then to now. Instructor Ron Goulart has written professionally for decades. He is the author of mystery novels, SF and fantasy novels and nonfiction books on comic books, comic strips and detective stories, has written for Marvel Comics and authored a nationally syndicated comic strip. Over 700 of his short stories and articles have been published in magazines ranging from Playboy, Ellery Queen, and MAD to Analog, Sports Illustrated and American Heritage.
Please call (203) 431-9995 for Fall 2010 dates.

Art History

The Art and Cities of Italy
Come experience the three most beautiful cities in Italy, just like a native would do. We will cover the Renaissance Art in Florence, the Baroque Art in Rome, and the Neoclassical Art in Venice, concentrating on paintings, sculpture, and architecture. You will also learn about the hidden pathways, the cities most beautiful neighborhoods and unearth cultural treasures. Also learn how to find the best trattorias, wine bars, cafes and entertainment. Shopping and discount itineraries will also be covered. Taught by Laura Bonechi. Laura Bonechi is from Florence and has a degree in Applied Art from the Florence Institute of Art. She has been a museum and tour guide, an interpreter, and chef.
Thur., 3/3, 10 & 17, 2011 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.; Venus Bldg.

Philosophy

Practical Buddhism and the Search for Self
Based on contemporary Buddhist bestseller The Buddha in Your Mirror (www.middlewaypress.com), this class will introduce a simple daily ritual that you can apply to relationships, career, health, and the unique environments you encounter in normal life. Unlike monastic traditions, this 700-year old Buddhist philosophy and technique can be practiced anywhere (not recommended while driving!) and can be completely integrated into your daily life (without redecorating, investing in a new wardrobe, or leaving for long weekends). Instruction will take place in English. Team taught by Charles Greenberg and a guest speaker. Charles Greenberg is head reference librarian at Yale Medical School Library. He team-teaches Practical Buddhism.
Please call (203) 431-9995 for Fall 2010 dates.

Digital ScrapBooking

Digital Scrapbooking
Your family stories are your heritage. From the big life events like weddings and births, to the everyday fun on the soccer field and summer vacations…we all have stories that need to be written and preserved. Tell your family story over and over again with a personalized digital scrapbook, poster or calendar. Learn how to use your computer, your digital images and your shoebox full of old family photos to create heirloom quality items that celebrate your family history. There is no special software to purchase since the program is entirely web based. We will produce an item of your choice in class while learning the skills that you can use on your own computer at home to create other special keepsakes. Taught by Janice Pauly. Janice Pauly is a retired teacher with over 30 years as a database applications specialist and has taught a number of professional development computer applications courses for educators and students. Materials Cost: $5 to $50 depending upon the chosen project. Class limit 6.
Please call (203) 431-9995 for Fall 2010 dates.